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The countdown to the T20 World Cup 2026 has well and truly begun, with expectations soaring as the global showpiece is set to kick off on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka. With subcontinental conditions promising flat pitches, quick outfields and packed stadiums, the tournament is expected to be a festival of fearless batting and high-octane cricket. Fans are already buzzing about which teams will rise to the occasion and, more importantly, which individuals will define the tournament with match-winning performances. Former England captain Kevin Pietersen believes the mega event will be shaped by bold youngsters who are unafraid to take the game on from ball one.
Kevin Pietersen names two stars to rock the charts in T20 World Cup 2026
Speaking at an ICC promotional event, Pietersen singled out two explosive batters whom he feels could leave a massive imprint on the 2026 edition — South Africa’s Dewald Brevis and India’s Abhishek Sharma.
Pietersen was full of praise for Brevis, pointing to a recent SA20 knock for Pretoria Capitals that showcased maturity beyond his years. Walking in when his side was reeling at 7 for 5, Brevis batted deep, soaked up pressure and guided his team to a competitive total of 143. According to Pietersen, this innings could mark a turning point in Brevis’ career. Often labelled as a “one-trick pony” for his six-hitting prowess, the South African youngster displayed composure, game awareness and adaptability — qualities that are priceless in World Cup cricket. Pietersen noted that such knocks silence critics and underline Brevis’ evolution into a complete T20 batter.
“Brevis again played another incredible innings last night. A couple of days ago, I was calling the game in Johannesburg where his team, the Pretoria Capitals, led by (Sourav) Ganguly, was struggling. They were seven for five (in the fifth over) and Brevis went (in) and batted for 15 overs and they got to a winning total of 140 or 150 (143/6). (Now) that’s something Brevis has always come under criticism for, that he’s just a one-trick pony. He stands there and he just tries to hit six after six after six. I said in the commentary that could be the making of Brevis, so from that point of view, he’s in that. Just because I’m seeing him a lot at the moment,” said Pietersen.
Abhishek, meanwhile, earned glowing praise from Pietersen for what he described as one of the finest T20 innings he has ever witnessed. Recalling Abhishek’s sensational 135 off 54 balls against England at the Wankhede Stadium, Pietersen revealed how he personally congratulated the young Indian after the match. Thirteen sixes, fearless strokeplay and total domination of a quality bowling attack convinced Pietersen that Abhishek is not just a talent, but a “proper star” built for the biggest stage.
“Abhishek Sharma. I mean, my goodness. I remember when Abhishek got that 150 (135 off 54 balls; seven fours, 13 sixes) against England, remember at the Wankhede Stadium last year? We were watching this and (when) he came over and we interviewed him after the game. I just put my hand on his shoulder and I said, ‘Young man, that is the best T20 innings I’ve ever seen in international cricket.’ That kid is a proper star,” added Pietersen.
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Youngsters set to sizzle the mega event
Pietersen’s picks reflect a broader trend heading into the T20 World Cup 2026 — the rise of fearless youngsters across teams. Almost every squad boasts players cut from a similar cloth to Abhishek and Brevis: batters who play with freedom, back their range, and thrive under pressure. In modern T20 cricket, youth brings innovation, unpredictability and a refreshing lack of baggage, all of which can turn games on their head.
With India and Sri Lanka providing conditions that reward both power and skill, the tournament is expected to be a launchpad for several emerging stars. While experienced campaigners will still have their say, it is the young guns who are likely to set the tempo, light up scoreboards and capture imaginations.
Also READ: Irfan Pathan names the perfect batting slot for Suryakumar Yadav ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
